Interactions

Interactions with Drugs

Stevia may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and in those taking drugs that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare provider, and medication adjustments may be necessary.

Although not well researched, stevia may also interact with monoketocholate (a substance that may affect glucose and lipid levels), diuretics (medications that increase urine flow), ant-inflammatories, anti-cancer agents, or hypocalcemic agents. Caution is advised.

Steviol is a vasodilator (medication that causes the blood vessels to dilate or expand). Caution is advised when taking stevia with other vasodilators. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, before combining therapies.

Verapamil is a calcium antagonist and may exhibit additive effects with stevioside. In an animal study, verapamil tended to increase the renal (kidney) and systemic effects of stevioside. Caution is advised.

Stevia has been used as a method of birth control in some countries. However, its use as a method of birth control is unclear and caution is advised.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Although not well researched, stevia may also interact with monoketocholate, diuretics (herbs and supplements that increase urine flow), inflammatories, anti-cancer agents, or hypocalcemic agents. Caution is advised.

Stevia may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.

Steviol is a vasodilator. Caution is advised when taking stevia with other herbs and supplements that are vasodilators. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, before combining therapies.

Stevia has been used as a method of birth control in some countries. However, its use as a method of birth control is unclear and caution is advised.